Le Corbusier

Le Corbusier: A Visionary of Modern Architecture and Design

Le Corbusier (1887–1965), born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, was a Swiss-French architect, urban planner, and furniture designer who became one of the most influential figures in modernist architecture and design. His work embraced functionalism, simplicity, and new materials, leading to a radical transformation of how buildings and furniture were conceived in the 20th century. His philosophy, which prioritized efficiency, geometric forms, and minimalism, helped shape modern urban planning and furniture design.

Early Life and Architectural Beginnings

Born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Le Corbusier trained as a watch engraver before studying architecture under René Chapallaz. In his early years, he traveled across Europe, studying classical architecture and drawing inspiration from Greek temples, Roman structures, and Renaissance buildings.

However, he soon rejected historical styles in favor of a machine-age aesthetic, advocating for rationalism and efficiency in design. In 1920, he adopted the name “Le Corbusier,” a version of his maternal grandfather’s surname, as part of his new design identity.

Five Points of Architecture and Modernist Vision

Le Corbusier introduced the “Five Points of a New Architecture”, which became a foundation for modernist design:

1. Pilotis (Support Columns) – Lifting buildings on slender columns to free the ground space.
2. Free-Plan Interiors – Open floor plans without structural walls, allowing flexible use of space.
3. Free Façade Design – Walls independent of the structural frame, enabling creative exteriors.
4. Horizontal Windows – Long bands of windows to maximize natural light.
5. Rooftop Gardens – Green spaces to compensate for lost ground space.

These principles shaped many of his architectural projects, making buildings more functional and adaptable to modern living.

Iconic Architectural Works

Le Corbusier’s buildings reflect his belief in modernity, efficiency, and urban planning. Some of his most famous works include:

• Villa Savoye (1929, France)
  A prime example of his Five Points of Architecture, this minimalist white villa is an icon of International Style, featuring pilotis, an open-plan layout, and ribbon windows.

• Unité d’Habitation (1952, France)
  A revolutionary housing project in Marseille, designed as a “vertical city”, featuring modular apartments, communal spaces, and a rooftop terrace.

• Chandigarh (1950s, India)
  Le Corbusier was commissioned to design the capital city of Chandigarh, creating monumental government buildings and an urban grid based on rational planning principles.

• Notre-Dame-du-Haut (1955, France)
  A rare example of his organic, sculptural approach to architecture, this chapel features curved concrete walls and small, dramatic windows.

Furniture Design and the LC Collection

Le Corbusier, along with Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand, designed some of the most iconic furniture pieces of the 20th century, blending steel, leather, and functional minimalism.

• LC2 and LC3 Grand Comfort Chairs (1928)
  Boxy, leather lounge chairs with a steel frame, offering a modern take on the traditional club chair.

• LC4 Chaise Lounge (1928)
  An adjustable reclining chair designed for ultimate comfort, known as the “relaxing machine.”

• LC1 Sling Chair (1928)
  A minimalist armchair with a steel frame and taut leather seat, emphasizing simplicity and comfort.

Legacy and Influence

Le Corbusier’s radical ideas about urban planning, prefabrication, and functional design shaped modern architecture. His work influenced Bauhaus, Brutalism, and contemporary minimalism, and his furniture remains in production today by Cassina.

Despite criticism for his rigid urban planning theories, his vision of efficiency, clarity, and modern living remains fundamental to architecture, interior design, and furniture innovation. His belief that “a house is a machine for living in” continues to inspire architects and designers globally.